As we near the close of 2015, I want to share with you what an honor it has been to serve on the Board of Supervisors over the last three years. I know that we’ve accomplished many significant things together – from securing a site for a new Felton Library, adding more Sheriff’s deputies on our streets, and making our streets and Highway 9 safer.
I invite you to continue working with me in the coming year. We live in one of the most beautiful, diverse and remarkable environments in the world and the people who live here are just as wonderful. I know that by our continuing to work together we can overcome many challenges.
Here are a few of the issues that I’ve worked on this past year and some that will continue to be addressed in 2016.
Felton Library Site
After pending for more than a decade, a land deal for the planned new Felton Library on Gushee Street was concluded in June between the CountyBoard of Supervisors and the Verutti family.
In addition to the new modern library building site, the deal includes property along Bull Creek, which offers the possibility of an outdoor exploration area for children, native plant demonstration gardens and riparian walkway.
Meanwhile, the Library Joint Powers Board is considering a ballot measure for an approximate $50 parcel tax that would raise funds for the Felton Library and the other branches of the City-County system.
Electrical Rate Re-designation is Sought
I am working with the Valley Women’s Club on a critical request to the California Public Utilities Commission to change the PG&E baseline designation for the San LorenzoValley.
The goal is to reduce the cost of electricity and reduce air pollution from woodstove smoke. Currently, due to the high cost of electricity, many San LorenzoValley residents use wood-burning stoves as their primary heat source, resulting in smoke particulate pollution.
The requested change in the electrical baseline designation would align San LorenzoValley with areas with similar average temperatures. It would also correct the inappropriate designation made years ago which effectively locked our costs to almost double the surrounding areas, in spite of our extremes of severe cold in the winter and heat in the summer.
Water District Merger Moves Forward
After failing to pass by one vote, the Lompico and San Lorenzo Valley Water Districts have agreed to try again to merge. We will know early in 2016 whether the formation of a $2.75 million assessment district is successful. I want to express my appreciation to the two water districts for working together to resolve a critical water issue.
Cannabis Cultivation Choices Committee
A 13-member Cannabis Cultivation Choices Committee was appointed by the Board of Supervisors, with the goal of recommending a new marijuana cultivation law for the Board of Supervisors to consider.
Known as C4, the committee has developed recommendations for protecting local control of cannabis cultivation and for licensing of micro cultivation sites. The committee has also asked for additional time to continue work on the policies.
I look forward to 2016 and to your continuing support. I am honored to work on your behalf.
Bruce McPherson is the Santa Cruz County Fifth District Supervisor.
